Rochford District Council has announced plans to revoke its existing byelaws governing open spaces and woodlands and introduce a new, up-to-date legal framework to better protect the district’s parks, green areas, and woodlands.
The proposed byelaws will update and expand the legal framework that currently governs the district’s parks, woodlands, and recreational areas. They will also extend protection to green spaces that were not previously covered under the old byelaws, which date back to 1975.
This decision follows growing concerns about anti-social behaviour, unauthorised activities, and the limited enforcement powers available under the current arrangements. Without the updated byelaws, the Council would continue to face challenges in effectively managing and protecting its open spaces.
A report outlining the proposals was presented to the Environment and Climate Change Committee on Thursday 18 September, where it received full approval. Rochford District Council currently manages 58 green spaces across the district, and these updated byelaws will help ensure they remain safe, welcoming, and well cared for.
Councillor Roger Constable, Chair of the Environment and Climate Change Committee at Rochford District Council, said: “These new byelaws are an important step forward in protecting our public open spaces for everyone to enjoy safely. Our existing rules are nearly 50 years old and no longer reflect how people use our parks and woodlands today. This update will give us the tools we need to manage our green spaces responsibly, deter anti-social behaviour, and safeguard these special areas for future generations.”
The proposed byelaws represent a balanced and necessary move towards preserving Rochford District’s natural assets while supporting safe, responsible recreation for all.